Cyclist Killed, Two Seriously Injured in Collision During Okanagan Granfondo Near Penticton
PENTICTON, B.C. — A fatal collision during the annual Okanagan Granfondo cycling event has left one cyclist dead and two others seriously injured, according to Penticton RCMP.
The crash occurred around midday Sunday on White Lake Road near St. Andrew’s Drive, a section of the race course that brings thousands of amateur and elite cyclists to the Okanagan Valley each year.
Police confirmed the incident involved a motor vehicle and multiple cyclists participating in the event. One cyclist was pronounced dead at the scene, while two others sustained serious injuries and were transported to hospital. Their current conditions have not been publicly released.
White Lake Road was shut down for nearly eight hours — from approximately 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. — while traffic collision analysts conducted a full investigation. DriveBC confirmed the road was reopened later Sunday evening, and detours put in place during the closure have since been lifted.
Community in Mourning After Tragic Cycling Event Crash
In an official statement, Penticton Mayor Julius Bloomfield addressed the grief rippling through the community in the wake of the tragedy.
“We are devastated by the news of this tragedy and our hearts go out to everyone who has been affected,” Bloomfield said. “On behalf of council and our entire community, we extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and every individual who has been impacted.
“In times like these, words often fall short. It’s a time to come together with compassion and kindness — and to show support for those in need.”
The City of Penticton had issued advance traffic advisories prior to Sunday’s mass participation cycling race, urging drivers to exercise caution and remain alert for large groups of cyclists on roadways throughout the region.
Okanagan Granfondo Organizers Respond
In a public statement posted Sunday afternoon, organizers of the Okanagan Granfondo expressed sorrow and pledged cooperation with authorities investigating the incident.
“We are heartbroken by the fatal incident that occurred during today’s event,” they wrote. “Our prayers are with all those impacted. We are fully cooperating with police and will support the community in every way we can.”
The annual Granfondo Axel Merckx Okanagan event is one of the largest of its kind in Canada, attracting riders from across the country and beyond. It features multiple race distances and winds through some of British Columbia’s most scenic landscapes.
As of Monday morning, the identity of the deceased cyclist has not been released pending notification of family. RCMP say the investigation remains ongoing and are asking anyone with dashcam or mobile footage from the area of White Lake Road around the time of the crash to come forward.